In a game packed with thrills, Colorado Buffaloes pulled off a dramatic 38-31 overtime win over Baylor on Saturday, September 21. Homecoming at Boulder became unforgettable as the Buffaloes staged a miraculous comeback, securing their first Big 12 win since rejoining the conference.
Hail Mary Magic in the Final Seconds
With seconds left in regulation, Colorado trailed by seven at Baylor’s 49-yard line. They needed a miracle to stay alive. All eyes were on Travis Hunter, who already had 126 receiving yards. But this time, he was the decoy.
Shedeur Sanders, with the defense locked on Hunter, had other plans. Rolling left, Sanders launched a Hail Mary aimed at 5-foot-11 receiver LaJohntay Wester. Surrounded by defenders, Wester out-jumped the coverage, snagging a 43-yard touchdown as time expired. Folsom Field exploded with cheers as the impossible became reality.
Overtime Drama: Buffs Strike First
The momentum surged into overtime. Sanders, calm under pressure, led a precise drive capped by Micah Welch’s second rushing touchdown of the night. Baylor needed to respond, but Colorado’s defense wasn’t done yet.
On Baylor’s possession, running back Dominic Richardson charged toward the end zone. Just as he neared the goal line, Travis Hunter delivered again, forcing a fumble that rolled out of the end zone. Game over. Colorado fans stormed the field, celebrating one of the most thrilling wins in recent memory.
Big Plays, Big Performances
Coach Deion Sanders expressed pride in his team’s resilience, despite the chaotic post-game celebration. “We still have so much more to show,” he said. Colorado overcame three deficits throughout the game, including a 100-yard kickoff return by Baylor, but the Buffs never lost their composure.
Shedeur Sanders threw for 341 yards and three touchdowns, including a key 58-yard strike to Omarion Miller before halftime. While Sanders and Hunter dominated, the offensive line’s contributions were critical, as they helped secure three rushing touchdowns despite eight Baylor sacks.
Travis Hunter’s Game-Saving Play
The night belonged to Travis Hunter, who shined on both sides of the ball. In addition to seven catches for 130 yards, Hunter’s forced fumble on defense sealed the win. “They don’t think I can tackle, so I had to show them,” Hunter said, grinning.
As Colorado celebrated their emotional victory, receiver LaJohntay Wester reflected on the Hail Mary that changed everything. “Your job is to make the quarterback right,” he said. “No matter what, you make the play.”
Buffs Make Their Statement
With this thrilling victory, the Buffaloes sent a loud message: their return to the Big 12 is no ordinary story. Colorado proved they can deliver when it matters most.
